The 2000s were a decade of pop culture that continues to influence our lives today. From the fashion trends that defined an era to the reality TV shows that captivated audiences, the stars of this time left an indelible mark on our collective memory. But what happened to these celebrities after they faded from the spotlight? Let's take a journey down memory lane and explore the lives of 18 celebrities from the 2000s who have since moved on from their heyday.
The Rise and Fall of Teen Heartthrobs
One of the defining features of the 2000s was the rise of teen heartthrobs who captivated audiences with their good looks and charming personalities. One such star was Jonathan Taylor Thomas, who played Randy Taylor in the beloved sitcom Home Improvement. Thomas' career took a turn after his time on the show, as he chose to focus on his education and attended both Harvard and Columbia. He has since stepped away from the spotlight, but his legacy as a teen heartthrob remains.
Another teen heartthrob who rose to fame in the 2000s was Freddie Prinze Jr., who starred alongside his now-wife Sarah Michelle Gellar in several films, including I Know What You Did Last Summer and Scooby-Doo. Prinze Jr. has since transitioned into scriptwriting and production roles, and his marriage to Gellar remains one of the most iconic relationships of the decade.
The Evolution of Amanda Bynes
Amanda Bynes was a household name in the 2000s, starring in iconic films such as She's the Man and Sydney White. However, after a successful career in acting, Bynes stepped back from the spotlight in 2010 to focus on her education and personal wellbeing. She has since made a brief comeback, but her time in the spotlight has been marked by a desire for privacy and a focus on her personal life.
The Transition of Teddy Dunn
Teddy Dunn's career grew alongside the 2000s, and he is best known for his role in the popular TV show Veronica Mars. After his final role in the show, Dunn headed back to school and graduated with a law doctorate from Boston College Law School in 2013. He has since left acting behind and pursued a successful career in law.
The Retirement of Leelee Sobieski
Leelee Sobieski was an iconic name in the 2000s, starring in films such as Never Been Kissed and Eyes Wide Shut. However, after a successful career in acting, Sobieski retired from the industry to focus on being a mother. She has since described showbiz as a "gross industry" and has moved on to other pursuits.
The Evolution of Jennifer Stone
Jennifer Stone is best known for her role as Harper Finkle in the popular Disney Channel show Wizards of Waverly Place. After her time on the show, Stone chose to major in psychology but was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, which prompted a shift to a career in nursing. She has since returned to acting and has several upcoming roles.
The Comeback of Seann William Scott
Seann William Scott brought the loud, brash Steve Stifler to life in the American Pie franchise. After his initial success, Scott transitioned into scriptwriting and production roles. He has since made a comeback, starring in serious thrillers and working on new projects.
The Humanitarian Work of Evangeline Lilly
Evangeline Lilly rose to fame in the 2000s, starring in the popular TV show Lost and later in The Hobbit series. After her successful career in acting, Lilly announced that she was stepping away from the industry to focus on her humanitarian work and writing. She has since continued to work on various projects and has made a name for herself beyond the world of acting.
The Transition of Eliza Dushku
Eliza Dushku became a staple on Buffy the Vampire Slayer and later starred in the sci-fi series Dollhouse. After her successful career in acting, Dushku left the industry to focus on her personal life and has since graduated with a master's degree and become a certified therapist.
The Comedy Career of Craig Kilborn
Craig Kilborn was a comedian and TV host who rose to fame in the 2000s, hosting The Late Late Show and appearing in films such as Old School and Full of It. He has since continued to work in comedy and currently runs a podcast called The Life Gorgeous with Craig Kilborn, where he invites listeners to join him on a journey to improve their lives.
The Comedy Career of Jay Mohr
Jay Mohr was comedy royalty in the 2000s, appearing in films such as Go and Jerry Maguire. He has since continued to perform on stage and host a podcast called Mohr Stories on YouTube, where he has amassed almost 600 episodes.
The STEM CEO of Bridgit Mendler
Bridgit Mendler was a Disney Channel star who rose to fame in the 2000s, starring in shows such as Wizards of Waverly Place and Good Luck Charlie. After her successful career in acting, Mendler transitioned into the world of business and is now the CEO and co-founder of the satellite data company Northwood Space.
The Comedy Career of Chris Kattan
Chris Kattan co-starred in several films in the 2000s, including A Night at the Roxbury and Corky Romano. He has since continued to work in comedy and is currently the co-host of the What's Up Peeps?! podcast with his wife, journalist and actress Maria Libri.
The Reality TV Star of Lauren Conrad
Lauren Conrad was a reality TV star who rose to fame in the 2000s, starring in shows such as The Hills and Laguna Beach: The Real Orange County. After her successful career in reality TV, Conrad has focused on building her fashion brand, LC Lauren Conrad, and has become a mother of two.
The Rom-Com Star of Dane Cook
Dane Cook was a rom-com star who rose to fame in the 2000s, starring in films such as Good Luck Chuck and Employee of the Month. He has since continued to work in comedy and has released several comedy albums, with his second album debuting in the Top 10 of the Billboard 200.
The Musical Career of Jason Mraz
Jason Mraz was a musical sensation in the 2000s, with hits such as 'I'm Yours' and 'I Won't Give Up'. He has since continued to tour and bring his music to fans around the world, with his songs amassing billions of streams on Spotify.
The Comedy Career of Andy Milonakis
Andy Milonakis was a comedian and actor who rose to fame in the 2000s, starring in the MTV comedy The Andy Milonakis Show. He has since continued to work in comedy and is still easily accessible to fans through his Instagram page.
The Transition of Oliver James
Oliver James was a teen heartthrob who rose to fame in the 2000s, starring in films such as What a Girl Wants. After his successful career in acting, James transitioned into the world of therapy and is now a psychotherapist in Guildford.
